Hurricane season is fast approaching! It officially begins on June 1 and ends November 30, 2021. As we focus on a safe and healthy reopening of our state, it remains critically important that we also remember to make the necessary preparations for hurricane season.

Your safety is our priority. FSA encourages you to prepare, and remember these key hurricane preparedness tips:

• Create a hurricane preparedness plan. Plan & Prepare
• Take advantage of the upcoming 10-day disaster preparedness tax free holiday from May 28 to June 6.
• Make sure you have all the supplies you need like water, batteries, canned foods, and medications for a minimum of 7 days.
• Charge your smartphone. You will need it for updates during the storm if you lose power.
• Hold a family meeting to discuss your hurricane preparedness plans. Have a plan for pets or anyone with special needs living in your home.
• Call out-of-town friends and family to let them know where you plan to stay during the storm.
• Make note of nearby shelters. Do not hesitate to go to a shelter if you live in an evacuation zone or don't feel secure in your home.
• Secure your home appropriately and safeguard important documents.
• Document assets for insurance purposes and understand your insurance policies.

Regardless of where you live in Florida stay aware of your surroundings and be ready to act when your sheriff and other local officials issue orders. Social distancing and other CDC guidelines to keep you safe may continue to impact your disaster preparedness plan this year. This could include what is in your go-kit, evacuation routes, shelters, and more.

Below are additional resources on ways you can prepare and stay informed about current conditions:

• National Weather Service
• State Emergency Response Team
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention